Why you should make a spectacle out of life (w/ Lear deBessonet)
Oct 14, 2024
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Lear deBessonet, an award-winning theater director and founder of the Public Works program, passionately advocates for embracing spectacle in our everyday lives. She discusses the transformative power of public art in fostering community connections and enhancing personal perceptions. Lear also shares her unique experiences, including her humorous rejections by ‘the San Diego chicken.’ Through her insights, listeners are encouraged to observe life creatively and seek wonder in the ordinary, highlighting art’s resilience and impact on the human spirit.
Embracing the artistry in everyday life can create lasting memories and transform mundane experiences into spectacles of joy and wonder.
Engagement in communal artistic projects fosters social bonds and health benefits, highlighting the profound impact art can have on community well-being.
Deep dives
The Perception of Time and the Role of Spectacle
Time often feels like it accelerates as people age, leading many to seek ways to slow it down and fully appreciate each moment. Engaging in new experiences, particularly travel or community spectacles, can create lasting memories and make days feel more substantial. Spectacles, such as parades or unique events, provide a sense of shared joy that can remind individuals of the beauty of life. This desire for memorable experiences highlights the importance of integrating spectacle into daily living to counter the swift passage of time.
Art as a Universal Experience
The distinction between professional and amateur artists is often misunderstood, as everyone can engage in and contribute to art. The term 'amateur', stemming from the Latin word for love, underscores that all artists, regardless of skill level or professional status, share a deep passion for human expression. Engaging in artistic endeavors allows individuals to reconnect with their creative impulses, fostering a sense of belonging and participation in the arts. This perspective encourages people to embrace their artistic instincts, regardless of societal labels.
The Healing Power of Art
The relationship between the arts and mental health is significant, with participation often aiding in emotional and physical healing. Artistic expressions provide comfort and connection, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their experiences and struggles. During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, many turned to art, music, and literature for solace and strength. Acknowledging that art can serve as a pathway to community and resilience encourages broader access to artistic opportunities for everyone.
Public Works and Community Engagement
Initiatives like Public Works create large-scale communal artistic projects that integrate local artists, communities, and health organizations, leading to transformative experiences. These productions are not only about the performance but also the relationships cultivated during the creative process, enhancing social bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. Through participatory art, individuals often discover newfound confidence and connection, reshaping their identities and views of the world. The project's focus on measurable outcomes, such as health improvements, emphasizes the broader societal benefits of arts engagement.
When was the last time something you watched struck you? Award-winning theater director Lear deBessonet is deeply passionate about spectacle – and thinks you should be too. She shares the unexpected connections, wonder, and creativity that come from finding the unusual, notable, or entertaining; in common everyday experiences — and why you should look for more ways to create spectacle in your own life. Plus, learn why Lear has been rejected by ‘the San Diego chicken’ multiple times.